If you're like many of us, November and December bring an unwanted holiday gift: a few extra pounds that show up when we step on the scale in January! Maybe you even got a head start by finishing off the leftover Halloween candy?

Earlier this year, the healthcare advocacy group Research!America polled a diverse group of people across the U.S. regarding their fears about various diseases and ailments. Many of the people polled said that blindness would be the worst health problem that could happen to them, even more so than Alzheimer's disease, cancer, or the loss of hearing or speech.

Some of the physical and mental changes of aging can affect our driving abilities. It's important to know that medications seniors take also can make it unsafe to drive. What should you know before you pick up the car keys and pick up your next prescription?

This is the time of year when we get outside more. The fresh air, exercise and natural surroundings provide a real health boost! But this also is the season when people are more likely to contract an illness from the bite of a tick.

An earlier issue of Caring Right at Home examined the many healthy aging benefits of humor and laughter. Numerous studies reveal that laughing promotes physical, emotional, intellectual and social well-being. Now, an intriguing new study from the University of Kansas suggests that laughter’s more subdued cousin, the smile, also may offer health benefits—even if you are only faking that grin!

When some people hear the word "acupuncture," they immediately cringe in fear, while others applaud the alternative or supplemental medical treatment. Considered a part of traditional Chinese medicine practiced in Asian countries for nearly 2,000 years, acupuncture involves inserting extremely thin, solid metallic needles into key acupuncture points in the body. Acupuncture practitioners believe this helps correct imbalances in chi (CHEE), or natural energy flow in a person’s body, helping every part of the body work in harmony.

Poll

Experts predict an increasing family caregiver shortage. What do you think about your own future care needs?

I am confident that family members will be able and glad to help me.

I have family, but I haven’t thought about how much they could help.

I think I’ll be on my own, but I haven’t planned.

I am creating a plan for care that includes professionals.

I am already receiving care.

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